Grid-tied variable frequency facility

ABSTRACT

A micro grid system comprises a secondary energy source and a power controller. The secondary energy source is associated with a micro grid that includes a fixed or mobile facility, and the secondary energy source is configured to generate first DC power signal. The power controller is in communication with the secondary energy source and an electric grid, and configured to receive first AC power signal from the electric grid and the first DC power signal from the secondary energy source and output a second AC power signal to loads in communication with the power controller. The power controller comprises an AC to DC frequency converter configured to change frequency and/or voltage of the second AC power signal, a processor, and a memory configured to store instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to control the frequency converter to change the frequency and/or voltage of the second AC power signal.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.17/647,070, titled “Variable Frequency Facility,” filed on Jan. 5, 2022,which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 17/444,221, titled“Grid-Tied Variable Frequency Facility,” filed on Aug. 8, 2021, which isa continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 17/183,677, titled“Grid-Tied Variable Frequency Facility,” filed on Feb. 24, 2021, whichis a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/843,163, filed on Apr.8, 2020, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNos. 62/870,543, filed Jul. 3, 2019; 62/941,173, filed Nov. 27, 2019;and 62/968,523, filed Jan. 31, 2020, each of the entire contents ofwhich is incorporated by reference in their entirety and for allpurposes. Any and all applications for which a foreign or domesticpriority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed withthe present application are hereby incorporated by reference under 37CFR 1.57.

BACKGROUND

This disclosure relates to renewable energy systems and further relatesto the renewable energy systems operating independently from theelectrical power grid, herein after the “grid.”

Electricity supplied to a home can come from various sources, forexample, an electrical grid and a local secondary energy source(renewable energy source), such as a solar panel or a wind turbine, tomaintain a reliable electricity supply. The local secondary energysource can be tied to the electrical grid, which is called a grid tiedsystem. Because of constant connection between the local secondaryenergy source and the electrical grid, the grid tied system de-energizesand ceases production and distribution of power from the local secondaryenergy source to the electrical grid or its associated facility wheneverthe electrical grid goes down. This shutdown requirement for all gridtied inverters is defined in National Electric Code, ANSI/UL 1741,California Rule 21, and IEEE 1547.

The electricity from the electrical grid is supplied with apredetermined frequency, for example, approximately 50 Hz in Europe andapproximately 60 Hz in North America. However, some appliances andequipment in the home or business can be operated with a frequency overor below the predetermined frequency. Thus, the frequency of theelectricity supplied to the home or business can vary from thepredetermined frequency.

SUMMARY

The innovations described in the claims each have several aspects, nosingle one of which is solely responsible for the desirable attributes.Without limiting the scope of the claims, some prominent features ofthis disclosure will now be briefly described.

Any combination of features described in provisional applications can beimplemented in combination with aspects described herein. Moreover, anycombination of features described in two or more of the provisionalapplications can be implemented together. As a non-limiting example, anyof the features included in one of the provisional applications can becombined with any of the features included in one or more of the otherappendices, as appropriate.

During a grid energy outage, even a facility equipped with the localsecondary energy source will be without power because an inverter towhich the local secondary energy source is connected cannot producepower without the presence of an electrical grid reference voltage andfrequency to prevent back feeding the de-energized grid. This shutdownrequirement for all grid tied inverters is defined in National ElectricCode, ANSI/UL 1741, California Rule 21, and IEEE 1547.

Aspects of a micro grid in a box (MIB) or adapter that can be used in agrid tied solar or storage (battery) or grid tied solar and batterysystem with a utility meter, including the smart meter, with or withouta remotely or automatically controlled grid “Service Disconnect” switchare described herein. The MIB can be located electrically and physicallybehind the utility or energy provider's electric meter. The MIB oradapter can isolate a secondary power system, such as grid-tied solarsystem or a battery system from the electric grid, prevent the isolatedor islanded secondary power system from feeding power back into thegrid, and permit the secondary power system to supply power to thefacility. The advantages are that the facility can continue to receivepower from the secondary power source associated with the facility whenthe electric grid is not supplying power.

An aspect of a micro grid system can comprise an adapter, a powercontroller, and a secondary energy source. The adapter is incommunication with an electric grid and configured to connect anddisconnect a connection between the electric grid and a micro grid. Thepower controller is in communication with the adapter and is configuredto receive first AC power from the electric grid via the adapter, obtaingrid information, and control the adapter to connect and disconnect theconnection between the electric grid and the micro grid. The powercontroller comprises a processor and a memory configured to storeinstructions that, when executed, cause the processor to control theadapter to disconnect the connection in response to determining that theelectric grid is abnormal based on the grid information. The secondaryenergy source is in communication with the power controller andconfigured to generate DC power and to supply the DC power to the powercontroller. The power controller is further configured to convert thegenerated DC power from the secondary energy source to second AC powerand to supply the second AC power to loads in communication with thepower controller responsive to a determination that the electric grid isabnormal.

The adapter can comprise a connection switch and a safety switch, theconnection switch being configured to connect and disconnect theconnection between the electric grid and the micro grid based on one ormore control signals from the power controller and the safety switchbeing configured to send a connection status signal to the powercontroller to notify the power controller of grid status, wherein thegrid status indicates i) that the electric grid is in electricallyconnected to the micro grid or ii) that the electric grid iselectrically disconnected from the micro grid.

The connection switch and the safety switch can be mechanically linkedto cause the connection switch and the safety switch operate together.

The power controller can be further configured to check the connectionbetween the electric grid and the micro grid using the safety switchafter controlling the adapter to disconnect the connection.

The micro grid system can further comprise a sensor configured to sensethe grid information including at least one of current, voltage, andenergy on a path between the electric grid and the micro grid.

The adapter can comprise the sensor. The adapter can comprise aconnector, the connector being configured to be coupled with a gridmeter. The power controller can comprise an inverter configured toconvert the DC power from the secondary energy source to the second ACpower and to modify frequency of the second AC power. The micro gridsystem can further comprise a wireless communication device configuredto communicate with an external device and wherein the power controllerobtains the grid information using the wireless communication device.

An aspect of method of operating a micro grid system can compriseobtaining grid energy information, determining a status of theelectrical grid based on the grid energy information, in response todetermining that the grid status is abnormal, disconnecting theconnection between the electric grid and the micro grid, and operatingthe secondary energy source to supply the second AC power to loadsassociated with the micro grid system responsive to disconnecting theconnection between the electric grid and the micro grid. The micro gridsystem comprising an adapter connected to an electric grid andconfigured to connect and disconnect a connection between the electricgrid and a micro grid, a power controller connected to the electric gridvia the adapter and configured to receive first AC power from theelectric grid via the adapter, a secondary energy source connected tothe power controller and configured to generate DC power and supply theDC power to the power controller for conversion into second AC power,

The grid energy information can be obtained by sensing at least one ofcurrent, voltage and energy on a path between the electric grid and thepower controller. The grid energy information can be obtained byreceiving grid information via wireless communication.

The adapter can comprise a connection switch configured to connect anddisconnect the connection between the electric grid and the micro gridand wherein the safety switch is configured to send signals to notifythe power controller of a status of the connection, the status beingthat the electric grid and the micro grid are electrically connected orthat the electric grid and the micro grid are electrically disconnected.

The method can comprises using the safety switch to verify the status ofthe connection between the electric grid and the micro grid aftercontrolling the adapter to disconnect the connection. The method cancomprises changing frequency of the second AC power supplied to theloads.

An aspect of an adapter can be configured to connect and disconnectconnection between an electric grid and a micro grid system. The adaptercan comprise a first connector, a second connector, a connection switch,a driver and a safety switch. The first connector can be configured tocouple to the electric grid. The second connector can be configured tocouple to a utility meter for measuring energy supplied from theelectric grid. The connection switch can be configured to connect anddisconnect electrical communication between the electric grid and thepower controller based at least in part on the measured energy. Thedriver can be configured to drive the connection switch to connect ordisconnect the connection. The safety switch can be mechanically linkedto the connection switch, the mechanical linkage causing the safetyswitch operate in conjunction with the connection switch, a state of thesafety switch associated with grid safety relative to operation of themicro grid system.

The adapter can further comprise a sensor configured to sense at leastone of current, voltage and energy on a path between the electric gridand a power controller that can be configured to receive AC power fromthe electric grid via the adapter.

The adapter can be configured to disconnect the connection in responseto determining that the at least one of the sensed current, the voltageand the energy is below a predetermined threshold.

The adapter can further comprise a processor and memory configured tostore instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to controlthe driver.

The adapter can comprise a motor mechanically connected to theconnection switch and the safety switch, and configured to be driven bythe driver, and wherein the driver comprises H motor control circuitry.

Aspects of a variable frequency electronics that can be used inconjunction with a micro grid to supply the load on the micro grid withvariable frequency power are described herein. The variable frequencyelectronics can modify the frequency of the power from the secondarypower source that is supplying power to the facility load.Advantageously, reducing the frequency of the power supplied to the loadon the facility reduces the power consumed by the load. This increasesthe efficiency and effectiveness of the secondary power source toprovide power to the facility loads. For example, the energy stored in abattery storage system will last longer before it need to be replenishedbecause it is being used more efficiently and more effectively. Thevariable frequency electronics continuously monitors the variablefrequency power and provides adjustments to the frequency for optimumoperation as the loads from the facility change. It is important to notethat the variable frequency electronics is monitoring and modifying thefrequency of the electrical energy supplied from a secondary powersource to all of the loads drawing power from the secondary powersource. This is different from a variable frequency motor that operatesusing variable frequency power because the variable frequencyelectronics monitors and adjusts the frequency based on the varyingcumulative load on a facility, as well as attributes of the secondarypower, such as current, voltage, and harmonics.

An aspect of a micro grid system can comprise a secondary energy sourceand a power controller. The secondary energy source can be associatedwith the micro grid, the secondary energy source configured to generatefirst DC power signal. The power controller can be in communication withthe secondary energy source and an electric grid, and configured toreceive first AC power signal from the electric grid and the first DCpower signal from the secondary energy source and to output a second ACpower signal to loads in communication with the power controller. Thepower controller can comprise a frequency converter configured to changefrequency of the second AC power signal, a processor, and a memoryconfigured to store instructions that, when executed, cause theprocessor to control the frequency converter to change the frequency ofthe second AC power signal.

The power controller can be configured to obtain information related toat least one of current, voltage, frequency and harmonic contents of thesecond AC power signal and to control the frequency converter to changethe frequency of the second AC power signal based on the information.

The frequency converter can comprise a first stage comprising an AC-DCconverter for converting the first AC power signal into a second DCpower signal, and a second stage comprising a bus bar configured toreceive the first DC power signal and the second DC power signal, and afirst inverter configured to convert at least one of the first andsecond DC power signals into the second AC power signal for distributionto the loads.

The first stage can comprise a second inverter that is configured toreceive the second DC power signal, convert the second DC power signalinto a third AC power signal, and supply the third AC power signal intothe electric grid.

The power controller can be configured to sense at least one of current,voltage and power on the bus bar, allocate electrons on the bus bar intothe secondary energy source, the first inverter, the loads, and theelectric grid based at least on the sensing result.

The second stage can comprise pulse width modulation circuitryconfigured to change a duty cycle of the first DC power signal, thefrequency converter configured to change the frequency of the second ACpower signal based on the duty cycle of the first DC power signal, andthe first inverter is in communication with the secondary energy sourcevia the bus bar and the pulse width modulation circuitry.

The secondary energy source can comprise a first energy source and asecond energy source. The pulse width modulation circuitry can comprisefirst pulse width modulation circuitry configured to change a duty cycleof the first DC power signal from the first energy source and secondpulse width modulation circuitry configured to change a duty cycle ofthe first DC power signal from the second energy source. The processorcan be configured to control the first pulse width modulation circuitryand the second pulse width modulation circuitry to synchronize the dutycycles of the first DC power signals from the first and second energysources.

The micro grid system can comprises an adapter configured to beconnected between the electric grid and the micro grid, and configuredto connect and disconnect a connection between the electric grid and themicro grid. The power controller can be further configured to controlthe adapter to disconnect the connection in response to determining thatthe electric grid is abnormal.

The system can comprise a rechargeable battery connected to the bus barand configured to store DC energy and to supply the DC energy to thefrequency converter via the bus bar.

An aspect of a method of operating a micro grid system can comprisegenerating a first DC power signal with the secondary energy source,outputting, with the power controller that is configured to receive thefirst DC power signal from the secondary energy source and a first ACpower signal from the electric grid, a second AC power signal to besupplied to loads associated with the micro grid system, modifyingfrequency of the second AC power signal. The modifying the frequency ofthe second AC power signal can include obtaining characteristics of thesecond AC power signal on a path between the power controller and theloads, calculating load to be operated based on the characteristics,generating, with the power controller, a control signal based on thecalculated load, and modifying, with a frequency converter, thefrequency of the second AC power signal supplied to the loads based onthe control signal. The micro grid can comprise a secondary energysource and a power controller in communication with the secondary energysource and an electric grid.

The characteristics of the second AC power signal can comprise at leastone of current, voltage, frequency and harmonic contents.

The characteristics of the second AC power signal can be obtained byreceiving the characteristics of the second AC power signal via wirelesscommunication.

The frequency of the second AC power signal can be modified by changinga duty cycle of the first DC power signal with pulse width modulation.

The secondary energy source can comprise a first energy source and asecond energy source. The frequency converter can comprise first pulsewidth modulation circuitry configured to change a duty cycle of thefirst DC power signal from the first energy source and second pulsewidth modulation circuitry configured to change a duty cycle of thefirst DC power signal from the second energy source. The method canfurther comprise synchronizing the duty cycles of the first DC powersignals from the first and second energy sources.

The method can further comprise obtaining grid energy informationassociated with the electric grid, determining a state of the electricgrid based on the electric grid information, the state being one ofnormal or abnormal, and in response to an abnormal determination,disconnecting an electrical connection between the electric grid and themicro grid system.

The method can further comprise converting the second AC power signalinto the second DC power signal and supplying the second DC power signalto the electric grid.

An aspect of a power controller for operating a micro grid systemcomprises a frequency converter, a process, and a memory. The micro gridsystem can comprise a secondary energy source configured to generate afirst DC power signal, the power controller in communication with theelectric grid and the secondary energy source. The frequency convertercan comprise an AC-DC inverter configured to receive a first AC powersignal from the electric grid and to convert the first AC power signalto a second DC power signal, and a first inverter configured to convertat least one of the first and the second DC power signals into thesecond AC power signal and to supply the second AC power signal to loadsassociated with the micro grid system. The memory is configured to storeinstructions that, when executed, cause the processor to control thefrequency converter to change frequency of the second AC power signalsupplied to the loads associated with the micro grid system.

The power controller can further comprises a sensor configured to senseat least one of current, voltage, frequency and harmonic contents of thesecond AC power signal, and the processor can be configured to controlthe frequency converter to change the frequency of the second AC powersignal based on the at least one of the sensed current, voltage,frequency and harmonic contents.

The frequency converter can further comprise a bus bar in communicationwith the secondary energy source, the electric grid, and the firstinverter, the bus bar being configured to receive the first DC powersignal and the second DC power signal and to deliver the first and thesecond DC power signals to the first inverter.

The controller can further comprise pulse width modulation circuitryconfigured to change a duty cycle of the first DC power signal, thefrequency converter configured to change the frequency of the second ACpower signal based on the duty cycle of the first DC power signal, thefirst inverter in communication with the secondary energy source via thebus bar and the pulse width modulation circuitry.

For purposes of summarizing the disclosure, certain aspects, advantagesand novel features are discussed herein. It is to be understood that notnecessarily all such aspects, advantages or features will be embodied inany particular embodiment of the invention, and an artisan wouldrecognize from the disclosure herein a myriad of combinations of suchaspects, advantages or features.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various embodiments will be described hereinafter with reference to theaccompanying drawings. The drawings and the associated descriptions areprovided to illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and do notlimit the scope of the invention. In the drawings, similar elements havesimilar reference numerals.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a renewable energysystem, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 2A is a block diagram illustrating an example of a renewable energysystem for grid-independent operation, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 2B is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of a renewableenergy system for grid-independent operation, according to certainembodiments.

FIG. 3A is a block diagram illustrating an example of a frequencychangeable driver for a renewable energy system, according to certainembodiments.

FIG. 3B is a block diagram illustrating an example of a frequencychangeable module for a renewable energy system, according to certainembodiments.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example adapter module forgrid-independent operation, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example controller forgrid-independent operation, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating another example controller forgrid-independent operation, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating an example operation of a microgrid system for grid-independent operation, according to certainembodiments.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating an example frequency changeoperation of a micro grid system for grid-independent operation,according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating another example operation of amicro grid system for grid-independent operation, according to certainembodiments.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating an example renewable energysystem, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating an example controller for arenewable energy system, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 12 is an example of an adapter for a renewable energy system forgrid-independent operation, according to certain embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various aspects of the novel systems, apparatuses, and methods aredescribed more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanyingdrawings. Aspects of this disclosure may, however, be embodied in manydifferent forms and should not be construed as limited to any specificstructure or function presented throughout this disclosure. Rather,these aspects are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough andcomplete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to thoseskilled in the art. Based on the teachings herein, one skilled in theart should appreciate that the scope of the disclosure is intended tocover any aspect of the novel systems, apparatuses, and methodsdisclosed herein, whether implemented independently of or combined withany other aspect. For example, an apparatus may be implemented or amethod may be practiced using any number of the aspects set forthherein. In addition, the scope is intended to encompass such anapparatus or method which is practiced using other structure,functionality, or structure and functionality in addition to or otherthan the various aspects set forth herein. It should be understood thatany aspect disclosed herein may be embodied by one or more elements of aclaim.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a renewable energy system,according to certain embodiments. The renewable energy system cancomprise a grid 101, and a secondary energy source such as a solar panel106, a rechargeable battery 107, and a wind turbine 110, for example.The renewable energy system can further comprise an inverter 105, ameter 102, a switch 113, a distribution panel 108 and a load 112. Aswitch 113 is positioned between the inverter 105 and the distributionpanel 104. The grid 101 can receive AC power from a grid pole 10 anddeliver the AC power to the distribution panel 104 through a meter 102.The inverter 105 is connected to the secondary energy source. Theinverter 105 can include a switch 111 for connecting the wind turbine110 to the rechargeable battery 107. The inverter 105 can convert DCpower to AC power and deliver the AC power to the distribution panel104. The distribution panel 104 can send the AC power from the grid 101and/or the inverter 105 to the load 112. The inverter 105 is shut downby the switch 113 when the grid is de-energized. Thus, the renewableenergy system cannot use the secondary energy source when there is agrid problem, for example an accidental grid outage or brown out.Further, when the secondary energy source over-generates power, theover-generated power can have negative effects on the distribution panel104 or the grid 101.

FIG. 2A is a block diagram illustrating an example renewable energysystem for grid-independent operation, according to certain embodiments.The renewable energy system can comprise a grid 201, a meter 202, anadapter 210′, a distribution panel 204, a secondary energy source 206,and a power controller 210. In an embodiment, the adapter 210′ can beomitted as illustrated in FIG. 2B. The distribution panel 204 candistribute power from the grid 201 and/or the secondary energy source206 to loads of a facility.

The meter 202 can measure power supplied from the grid 201. The meter202 can measure a power supplied from the power controller 210. Theadapter 210′ can be positioned between the grid 201 and the powercontroller 210. The secondary energy source 206 can comprise a battery206 a and a solar panel 206 b. The battery 206 a can be used as backuppower for the loads. The distribution panel 204 can supply power toloads.

The adapter 210′ can connect or disconnect a connection between the grid201 and the power controller 210. The adapter 210′ can connect ordisconnect the connection between the grid 201 and the power controller210 based on inputs from the power controller 210. In an embodiment, theinputs can comprise information related to the grid 201 (outage,wildfire, leakage, etc.). For example, when the grid does not workproperly due to outage or leakage, the power controller 210 can detectabnormality of the grid and transmit a signal for disconnecting theconnection between grid 201 and the power controller 210. The inputs canbe sensed by an internal sensor of the adapter 210′. The inputs can besensed by an external sensor of the adapter 210′. The inputs can bedelivered to the power controller 210 via wireless communication orwired communication. The power controller 210 can be electricallyconnected to the adapter 210′. The power controller 210 can receiveinputs from outside the power controller 210. In an embodiment, thepower controller 210 can receive the inputs via wireless communication.In one embodiment, the power controller 210 can sense at least one ofcurrent, voltage, frequency and harmonic contents from the grid 201 orreceive sensing results sensed by the adapter 210′. The power controller210 can provide the adapter 210′ with connect/disconnect signal tocontrol the connection/disconnection between the grid 201 and the powercontroller 210. In an embodiment, the adapter can connect/disconnectbetween the grid 201 and the power controller 210 automatically.

Accordingly, a micro grid system comprising the power controller 210,the secondary energy source 206, the distribution panel 204, and theloads can be operated independently from the grid 201. Advantageously,the micro grid system can prevent back feeding of power from thesecondary energy source to the grid 201 and supply the load withelectrical energy from the secondary energy source 206. In anembodiment, the adapter 210′ can comprise 2PST or 3PST heavy duty powerrelays for connecting/disconnecting between the grid 201 and the microgrid.

The power controller 210 can receive DC power from the secondary energysource 206. The power controller 210 can sense at least one of current,voltage, frequency, and harmonic contents outputted from the powercontroller 210. For example, the power controller 210 can include asensor 208 for sensing at least one of current, voltage, frequency, andharmonic contents outputted from the power controller 210.

The power controller 210 can comprise frequency variable electronics 212and an energy quarterback 214. The frequency variable electronics 212can control the frequency of the electrical waveform that provideselectricity to power the facility loads. The frequency variableelectronics 212 can comprise an inverter and a converter. In anembodiment, at least one of the loads can be directly connected to thefrequency variable electronics 212. The frequency variable electronics212 can receive the power from the grid 201 and supply the power to thedistribution panel 204 or the frequency variable electronics 212. Thefrequency variable electronics 212 can change frequency of the powersupplied to the distribution panel 204 or the at least one of the loads.The frequency variable electronics 212 can change frequency of the powersupplied to the distribution panel 204 or the at least one of the loadsbased on inputs from the energy quarterback 214. In an embodiment, thefrequency variable electronics 212 can change the frequency of the powerinto a range of approximately 1 Hz to approximately 100 Hz. In anotherembodiment, the frequency variable electronics 212 can change thefrequency of the power into a range of approximately 10 Hz toapproximately 80 Hz. In another embodiment, the frequency variableelectronics 212 can change the frequency of the power into a range ofapproximately 20 Hz to approximately 70 Hz. In another embodiment, thefrequency variable electronics 212 can change the frequency of the powerinto a range of approximately 40 Hz to approximately 70 Hz. Sinceoperation of some loads, such as HAVC compressors, refrigerators, fans,motors, etc., depend on the frequency of the power supplied thereto, thepower with changed frequency can have effects on the energyeffectiveness of supplied or stored energy. Thus, by changing thefrequency of the supplied AC power, the efficiency of the loads can beadjusted to better match the instant available secondary energyavailability and available stored energy. The advantages of changing thefrequency of the power to the loads are reduced energy loading onto andthe effectiveness of varying or fixed secondary energy resources ofsolar, wind, Fuel Cells, and battery storage systems.

In an embodiment, adjusting frequency variable electronics 212 outputcurrent capacity (ampacity) to match connected facility loads byshifting frequency of normalized operation of inverter frequency fromapproximately 50 Hz or approximately 60 Hz to a range from betweenapproximately 1 Hz to approximately 100 Hz depends on factorsincluding; 1) solar energy output and 2) demand from connected energyloads that are factored into determining inverter frequency of operationto match solar supply with connected load demands.

The energy quarterback 214 can comprise at least one of circuitry, aprocessor, memory, control 110 ports. wireless communication device, asensor, and a switch. The energy quarterback 214 can comprise cybersecure ICs, cyber secure algorithms, and communication ports. The memorycan store at least one of software, firmware, and algorithms. Forpurposes of illustration, the power controller 210 is illustrated withina dashed box. The frequency variable electronics 212 and the energyquarterback 214 can be separate components. In an embodiment, the energyquarterback 214 can be at least one of algorithms, instructions, andsoftware or a hardware storing them and hardware for executing the atleast one of algorithms, instructions, and software. In an embodiment,the energy quarterback 214 can receive instructions remotely and executethe instructions. In an embodiment, the adapter 210′ can have a part ofthe power controller 210. FIG. 12 is an example of an adapter for arenewable energy system for grid-independent operation, according tocertain embodiments. As shown in FIG. 12, some integrated circuits and abattery are mounted inside the adapter. The integrated circuits cancomprise at least one of a sensor, a processor, and a communicationdevice. The integrated circuits can comprise cyber secure ICs, memoryincluding cyber secure algorithms, and cyber secure communication ports.The communication device can receive outputs from the sensor andtransmit data related to the outputs. The outputs can comprise at leastone of current, voltage, frequency, and harmonic contents outputted fromthe power controller 210 or the grid 201. The battery can supply powerfor the integrated circuits.

The energy quarterback 214 can receive information regarding at leastone of current, voltage, frequency, and harmonic contents on a pathbetween the frequency variable electronics 212 and the distributionpanel 204. The energy quarterback 214 can provide feedback to thefrequency variable electronics 212. The energy quarterback 214 canprovide feedback to the frequency variable electronics 212 based on theinformation. The frequency variable electronics 212 can adjust thefrequency of the power supplied to the distribution panel 204 based atleast in part on the feedback. Power for the power controller 210 can besupplied from the secondary energy source 206 or an internal batterythereof.

FIG. 2B is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example renewable energysystem for grid-independent operation, according to certain embodiments.The renewable energy system can comprise a grid, a distribution panel204′, a secondary energy source such as batteries 206 a and solar energy206 b′, and a power controller 210′. The distribution panel 204′ candistribute power from the grid and/or the secondary energy source toloads of a facility. In an embodiment, the loads can include anyelectrical load not limited to fans, motors, lights, HVAC, computers,refrigerators, electric stoves, electric hot water heaters, electricheat pumps, computer servers, communication systems, medical devices,electric manufacturing devices and systems, EV chargers, and electricaldevices and appliances of all types and varieties commonly or uncommonlyassociated within or outside of an electrically energized facility. Someloads such as fans, motors, lights, HVAC, a washer-dryer, refrigeratorscan be operated by AC power. Some loads such as TV, computers, lightscan be operated by AC-DC conversion. In an embodiment, the facility mayinclude a fire station, police station, municipal facility, hospital,school, manufacturing facility, data center, cell phone site, apartmentbuilding, condo building, or homes.

The power controller 210′ can receive various inputs. The inputs cancomprise a power from the grid, and a power from the batteries 206 a′,the solar energy 206 b′, and an electric vehicle charger 206 c′. Thepower controller 210′ can comprise a frequency variable electronics 212′and the energy quarterback 214′. The frequency variable electronics 212′can receive the power from the grid, and the power from the batteries206 a′, the solar energy 206 b′, and the electric vehicle charger 206c′, change a frequency of the power and supply the power with changedfrequency to the distribution panel. In an embodiment, the powercontroller 210′ can be similar to the power controller 210 illustratedin FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3A is a block diagram illustrating an example power controller 310for a renewable energy system, according to certain embodiments. Thepower controller 310 can comprise frequency variable electronics 312 andan energy quarterback 314. The power controller 310 can communicate withexternal devices and receive data related to a grid, a secondary energysource, weather, etc. via wireless communication 316. In an aspect, thepower controller 310 receives data over a network, such as the Internet.

The power controller 310 can supply AC power with various frequency tothe facility loads. In an embodiment, the frequency variable electronics312 can supply AC power with various frequency to the facility loads.For example, the frequency variable electronics 312 can supply AC powerwith a range of approximately 1 Hz to approximately 100 Hz to thefacility loads. In another embodiment, the frequency variableelectronics 212 can change the frequency of the power into a range ofapproximately 10 Hz to approximately 80 Hz. In another embodiment, thefrequency variable electronics 212 can change the frequency of the powerinto a range of approximately 20 Hz to approximately 70 Hz. In anotherembodiment, the frequency variable electronics 212 can change thefrequency of the power into a range of approximately 40 Hz toapproximately 70 Hz. The energy quarterback 314 can sense at least oneof current, voltage, frequency and harmonic contents outputted from thepower controller 310 to the facility loads, generate control signals forcontrolling the frequency variable electronics 312 and provide thecontrol signals to the frequency variable electronics 312. The frequencyvariable electronics 312 can change the frequency of the power based onthe control signal.

In an embodiment, the frequency variable electronics 312 can receive ACpower from the grid, convert the AC power into DC power, convert the DCpower into AC power having desire frequency and supply to the facilityloads the AC power having the desire frequency. In an embodiment, thefrequency variable electronics 312 can receive DC power from a secondaryenergy source such batteries 306 a, a solar panel 306 b and/or anelectric vehicle charge/discharge system 306 c, convert the DC powerinto AC power having desire frequency and supply to the facility loadsthe AC power having the desire frequency. In an embodiment, when thesensed load is larger than a predetermined threshold, the energyquarterback 314 can control the frequency variable electronics 312 todecrease the frequency of the power supplied to the loads. When thesensed load is smaller than a predetermined threshold, the energyquarterback 314 can control the frequency variable electronics 312 toincrease the frequency of the power supplied to the loads.

The power controller 310 can receive information regarding weather,cost, grid factors such as amount of energy, balance of the secondaryenergy source, and the like via wireless communication 316.

FIG. 3B is a diagram illustrating a frequency variable electronics 300for a renewable energy system, according to certain embodiments. Atleast one configuration of the frequency variable electronics 300 can beused for the systems illustrated in FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 3A. The frequencyvariable electronics 300 can be connected to the grid via a meter 202,an adapter 310′, a distribution panel (or loads), a secondary energysource such as a solar panel 306 b, a battery 306 a, an electric vehiclecharger 306 c, and an energy quarterback (not illustrated). The meter202 can measure a power supplied to the frequency variable electronics300 from the grid 202. The adapter 310′ can measure the power from thefrequency variable electronics 300 to the grid 202. The frequencyvariable electronics 300 can receive AC power from the grid 202. Thefrequency variable electronics 300 can receive DC power from a battery306 a, a solar panel 306 b and/or an electric vehicle charger 306 c.

In an embodiment, the frequency variable electronics 300 can compriseanalog or digital AC signal generating circuits. The frequency variableelectronics 300 can provide approximately 1 Hz to approximately 100 Hzor other preselected frequencies and voltages.

The frequency variable electronics 300 can comprise a first stage 3122,a second stage 3124, and a third stage 3126. The first stage 3122 cancomprise an AC-DC converter 3122 a and a DC-AC inverter 3122 b. TheAC-DC converter 3122 a and the DC-AC inverter 3122 b are positionedbetween the grid 202 and the second stage 3124. The first stage 3122 canreceive AC power from the grid 202, convert the AC power to DC powerusing the AC-DC converter 3122 a, and transmit the DC power to thesecond stage 3124. The first stage 3122 can receive DC power from thesecond stage 3124, convert the DC power from the second stage 3124 to ACpower using the DC-AC inverter 3122 b, and transmit the AC power to thegrid 202. The energy quarterback can sense at least one of current,voltage, power at a path 3122 c between the AC-DC converter 3122 a andthe grid 202. The energy quarterback can send on/off signal to theadapter 310′ to connect/disconnect a connection between the frequencyelectronics 300 and the grid 202.

The second stage 3124 can comprise a bus bar 3124 a, a rectifier 3124 b,first pulse width modulation circuitry 3124 c, second pulse widthmodulation circuitry 3124 d, and a frequency variable inverter 3124 f.The second stage 3124 can comprise the third pulse width modulationcircuitry 306 a′. The AC-DC converter 3122 a is connected to the bus bar3124 a. One end of the rectifier 3124 b can be connected to the DC-ACinverter 3122 b and the other end of the rectifier 3124 b can beconnected to the bus bar 3124 a. In an embodiment, the rectifier 3124 bcan comprise a silicon-controlled rectifier (SCR). The rectifier 3124 bcan be controlled by the energy quarterback. For example, the energyquarterback can turn on or off the rectifier 3124 b to control energysupply to the grid 202. High power steering diodes are depicted tocontrol the flow of DC electrons, however this is non-limiting andshould also embody the option of SCRs or other solid state switchingdevices that are controlled by the energy quarterback logic and controlcircuitry. The energy quarterback can determine whether the frequencyvariable electronics 300 supplies the AC power to the grid 202. The busbar 3124 a is connected to the solar panel 306 b via first pulse widthmodulation circuitry 3124 c, the electric vehicle charger 306 c via thesecond pulse width modulation circuitry 3124 d, the battery 306 a via athird pulse width modulation circuitry 306 a′, and the frequencyvariable inverter 3124 f. Diodes can be connected between the bus bar3124 a and the respective solar panel 306 b, the electric vehiclecharger 306 c, the battery 306 a, and the frequency variable inverter3124 f to block undesirable flow of the DC power as illustrated in FIG.3B. For example, the solar panel 306 b can supply DC power to the busbar 3124 a. The battery 306 a can receive DC power from and/or supply DCpower to the bus bar 3124 a. The bus bar 3124 a can supply DC power tothe frequency variable inverter 3124 f. The bus bar 3124 a can supply DCpower to the electric vehicle charger 306 c.

The first pulse width modulation circuitry 3124 c and the second pulsewidth modulation circuitry 3124 d can receive control signal 314 b, 314b′ from the energy quarterback, respectively. The first pulse widthmodulation circuitry 3124 c and the second pulse width modulationcircuitry 3124 d can change frequency (on/off duty cycle) of the DCpower from the solar panel 306 b and the electric vehicle charger 306 c,respectively. The third pulse width modulation circuitry 306 a′ canreceive control signal from the energy quarterback. The third pulsewidth modulation circuitry 306 a can adjust frequency of the DC powerfrom the battery 306 a. In an embodiments, at least one of the first,the second, and the third pulse width modulation circuitry 3124 c, 3125d, 306 a′ can be an internal circuitry of the frequency variableelectronics 300 or an external circuitry of the frequency variableelectronics 300.

The energy quarterback can sense at least one of current, voltage,frequency, and harmonic contents on a path 3124 e of the bus bar 3124 b.In an embodiment, the energy quarterback can generate control signalsfor determining allocations of energy (or power) of the frequencyvariable electronics 300 based on sensing results on the path 3124 e andprovide the control signals to the frequency variable electronics, e.g.,to at least one of the first, the second and the third pulse widthmodulation circuitry 3124 c, 3125 d, 306 a′, the SCR 3124 b, and thefrequency variable inverter 3124 f. For example, the energy quarterbackcan compare the sensing results with a threshold to generate the controlsignals. The energy quarterback can compare the sensing results with atleast one of loads, a power generated by the secondary energy source, apower from the grid, etc., to generate the control signals. In anembodiment, the sensing results on the path 3124 e can be a factor forthe control signals.

In an embodiment, the first, the second, and the third pulse widthmodulation circuitry 3124 c, 3124 d, 306 a can be operated tosynchronize the frequencies of the powers supplied to the frequencyvariable inverter 3124 f based on the control signal from the energyquarterback.

The frequency variable inverter 3124 f can convert received DC powerinto AC power and provide the AC power to the third stage 3126. In anembodiment, when frequency (on/off duty cycle) of the DC power can beadjusted by at least one of the first, the second, and the third pulsewidth modulation circuitry, frequency of power outputted from thefrequency variable inverter 3124 f can be adjusted. That is to say, thecombination of the pulse width modulation circuitry 3124 c, 3125 d, 306a′, the energy quarterback, and frequency variable inverter 3124 f cansupply AC power with various frequency.

At stage 3126, the energy quarterback can sense facility loads connectedto the frequency variable electronics 300. The energy quarterback cangenerate feedback signals based on at least one of current, voltage,frequency, harmonic contents between the frequency variable electronics300 and the distribution panel or loads. The energy quarterback cangenerate feedback signals (the control signal) and transmit the feedbacksignal to the first, the second, and the third pulse width modulationcircuitry 3124 c, 3124 d, and 306 a′. In an embodiment, the secondenergy source can supply power (or energy, current, voltage) to thefrequency variable inverter 3124 f via bus bar 3124 a. In an embodiment,the second energy source can supply power (or energy, current, voltage)to the frequency variable inverter 3124 f not via the bus bar 3124 a. Inan embodiment, the secondary energy source can supply power to orreceive power from the bus bar 3124 a.

In an embodiment, the frequency variable electronics 300 can comprisediodes. For example, diode can be connected between the bus bar 3124 athe solar panel 316 b, the battery 306 a, the electric vehicle charger306 c, and the frequency variable inverter 3124 f, respectively. The busbar 3124 a can receive DC power from solar panel 306 b and battery 306a, and supply the DC power to the inverter 3124 f, the electric vehiclecharger 306 c and the battery 306 a.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example adapter module 400 forgrid-independent operation, according to certain embodiments. At leastone configuration of the adapter module 400 can be used for the adapter210′, 310′ in FIG. 2A and FIG. 3B, respectively.

The adapter module 400 can comprise a first housing 402 a, an adapter402 b, a second housing, and a meter 402 d. The first housing 402 a cancomprise a first connector such a grid side socket 404 a and a facilityside socket 404 a′. The second housing 402 c can comprise a secondconnector such as a first meter plug 404 a and a second meter plug 404a′. The grid side socket 404 a can be coupled with the first meter plug404 a. The facility side socket 404 a′ can be coupled with the secondmeter plug 404 a′. Without the adapter 402 b, the first housing 402 aand the second housing 402 c can be coupled with each other. The gridand the facility load can be electrically connected to each other whenthe first housing 402 a and the second housing 402 c are coupled witheach other. The meter 402 d can measure amount of power supplied fromthe grid to the facility loads.

The adapter 402 b can comprise a connector such as a grid side plug 406a, a facility side plug 406 a′, a first meter socket 408 a, and a secondmeter socket 408 a′. The grid side plug 406 a and the facility side plug406 a′ can be coupled with the grid side socket 404 a and the facilityside socket 404 a′, respectively. The meter socket 408 a and the secondmeter socket 408 a′ can be coupled with the first meter plug 404 a andthe second meter plug 404 a, 404 a′, respectively. The grid and thefacility load can be electrically connected to each other via theadapter 402 b. The adapter 402 b can be connected to the powercontroller (not illustrated) or the energy quarterback 414. The energyquarterback 414 can be connected to a secondary energy source (notillustrated). The energy quarterback 414 can comprise a sensor 414 a forsensing at least one of current, voltage and frequency, and harmoniccontents of power from the grid.

The adapter 402 b can comprise a connect/disconnect switch 405 and asafety switch 403. In an embodiment, the connect/disconnect switch 405can include 2PST (2 phase) or 3PST (3 Phase) switches. The safety switch403 can be configured to open and close (short). The sensor 414 a canfurther sense at least one of current, voltage and frequency of powerbetween the connect/disconnect switch 405 and the facility loads. Theconnect/disconnect switch 405 can connect or disconnect the grid and thefacility load. In an embodiment, the energy quarterback 414 canrecognize status of the connection between the grid and the facilityloads based on signals from the safety switch 403. The safety switch 403can be a sensor sending different signals according to its open stateand close state. For example, the safety switch 403 can send a signalrepresenting a zero (0) to the energy quarterback 414 to indicate thatthe grid is electrically connected to the facility loads. The safetyswitch 403 can send a signal representing a one (1) to the energyquarterback 414 to indicate that the grid is electrically disconnectedfrom the facility loads. For example, the safety switch 403 is openedwhen the connect/disconnect switch 405 connects the connection betweenthe grid and the facility load. The safety switch 403 is closed when theconnect/disconnect switch 405 disconnects the connection between thegrid and the facility load. In an embodiment, the energy quarterback canbe connected to the safety switch 403 and sense the open state or closedstate of the safety switch 403.

In an embodiment, when the grid is electrically connected to thefacility loads, the energy quarterback 414 can maintain synchronizationof frequency of power from the grid and the power controller. When thegrid is electrically disconnected to the facility loads, the energyquarterback can change frequency of power from the power controller tothe facility loads.

In an embodiment, the connect/disconnect switch 405 can comprise a motordriven switch. The connect/disconnect switch 405 can be operated usingH-motor control. The safety switch 403 can be mechanically linked to theconnect/disconnect switch 405. For example, when the connect/disconnectswitch 405 is opened by the motor, the safety switch 403 is also drivento be closed. When the connect/disconnect switch 405 is closed by themotor, the safety switch 403 is also driven to be opened. Theconnect/disconnect switch 405 can be controlled by the energyquarterback 414.

In an aspect, the connect/disconnect switch 405 can be at least oneof 1) a series-wired add-on device for insertion into a meter panelconnected to the facility load side of a utility meter, both physicallyand electrically, 2) configured to accept a meter as plug-in module forseries connection on the Facility load side of a meter, and 3) have aconnection to the power controller. The connect/disconnect switch 405can be configured as 2PST, 4PST, or 6PST electro-mechanical or motordriven switching relay or fully electronic power switch consisting ofThyristors, or IGFET, or MOSFET, or SCRs, IGBT, or other solid-stateswitching devices. The connect/disconnect switch 405 can be configuredas a latching 4PST electrical switch for single phase connection. Theconnect/disconnect switch 405 can be configured as a Latching 6PSTelectrical switch for 3-phase connection, 1) where 2 of 4 poles of theconnect/disconnect switch 405 are wired in series with grid andconfigured as single-phase grid disconnect. The safety switch 403 can beconfigured in the same or opposite connection of connect/disconnectswitch 405.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an energy quarterback 514 forgrid-independent operation, according to certain embodiments. The energyquarterback 514 can comprise cyber secure integrated circuits, datastorage including cyber secure algorithms, and cyber securecommunication ports. In an aspect, the energy quarterback 514 cancomprise a secure receiver that can be configured as a secure cellphone, secure satellite-based phone, secure land-line phone, or anyother secure and pre-cleared communication device. In all cases. thesecommunication systems will include verified and preloaded securityclearance authentication that will only allow connection, data input, ordata feeds from a highly secure pre-approved wired or wirelesscommunication connection. The energy quarterback can include a secureROM, configured as EEPROM or other available secure memory options, thatis used to verify and permit connections and communications with precleared secure data inputs that can be used to access the energyquarterback 514 and its internal CPU, BIOS, systems, ROM, RAM, dataloggers, and algorithms.

The energy quarterback 514 can receive inputs from the safety switch403, and at least one of voltage, energy and current on a path betweenthe grid and the energy quarterback 514. The energy quarterback 514 canuse at least one of Bluetooth, cellular connections, WiFi, LTE, 2G, 3G,4G, or 5G or any wired or wireless protocol to remotely receive data,information, inputs, and signals from or transmit data, information,inputs, and signals to external device, module, switch, and electronics.The communication between the energy quarterback 514 and externaldevice, module, switch, and electronics is secured by the cyber secureintegrated circuits, the cyber secure algorithms, and/or the cybersecure communication ports. The energy quarterback 514 can provide theconnect/disconnect switch 405 and the frequency variable electronicswith control signals based on the data, the information, the inputs, andthe signals from external device, module, switch, and electronics.Further, the energy quarterback 514 can receive weather information,grid information, secondary energy source information, etc.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating another example energyquarterback for grid-independent operation, according to certainembodiments. Some parts (e.g., energy quarterback end point) of theenergy quarterback are positioned separately from the other parts of theenergy quarterback as illustrated in FIG. 6. In an embodiment, an energyquarterback end point 614 can comprise memory, a processor, a wirelesscommunication unit and I/O ports. The energy quarterback end point 614can receive power from grid 602 or battery 603. An energy quarterbackgateway 608 can be remotely separate from the energy quarterback endpoint 614 and can receive inputs, data or information from a third partyvia wireless communication 607. The wireless communication 607 cancomprise at least one of Bluetooth, cellular connections, WiFi, LTE, 2G,3G, 4G, or 5G or any wired or wireless protocol. The energy quarterbackgateway 608 can power from solar panel and/or a battery. The energyquarterback gateway 608 and the energy quarterback end point 614 canreceive or transmit inputs, data or information each other. The energyquarterback end point 614 can send control signals to a switchcontroller for control of the connect/disconnect switch 405. The switchcontroller can comprise H-motor controller. The energy quarterback endpoint 614 can receive a signal from the safety switch mechanicallylinked to the connect/disconnect switch 405.

FIG. 7 illustrates an example operation 700 of a micro grid system forgrid-independent operation, according to certain embodiments. Beginningat block 710, a micro grid system is operating. The micro grid systemcan comprise a power controller including a frequency variableelectronics and an energy quarterback, a secondary energy source, andfacility loads. The micro grid system is electrically connected to agrid. The frequency variable electronics, the energy quarterback, and asecondary energy source can be similar to the frequency variableelectronics 212, 212′, 312, 300 the energy quarterback 214, 214′, 314,514 and a secondary energy source 206.

At block 715, the micro grid system can obtain grid energy informationfrom the grid. The micro grid system can obtain grid energy informationby sensing at least one of current, voltage, power on a path between thegrid and the micro grid system. In an embodiment, the micro grid systemcan receive the grid energy information via network. For example, anexternal device, user, or another micro grid system can send the gridenergy information.

At block 720, the micro grid system determines that grid energy oroperation is normal or abnormal based on the grid energy information. Inan embodiment, the micro grid system determines that the grid energy isabnormal when the grid energy is smaller than threshold or the microgrid system receives information indicating grid outage.

If it is determined that the grid energy is normal at block 720, themicro grid system returns to block 715 and continues to obtain the gridenergy information at block 715. If it is determined that the gridenergy is abnormal at block 720, the operation 700 moves to block 725.The micro grid system disconnects a connection between the grid and themicro grid system at block 725. The disconnection can preventelectricity generated from the micro grid system from flowing into thegrid. The micro grid system can disconnect the connection between thegrid and the micro grid system by sending a control signal to a switchon a path between the grid and the micro grid system.

At block 730, the micro grid system senses a signal from a safetyinterlock. In an embodiment, the safety interlock can send a signal tothe micro grid system to notice whether the micro grid system is tied tothe grid or not. If it is determined that the micro grid system is tiedto the grid at block 735, the operation 700 can move to block 715 andobtain the grid energy information. If it is determined that the microgrid system is not tied to the grid (islanded) at block 735, theoperation 700 can move to block 740. At block 740, the micro grid systemoperates the secondary energy source to supply power to the facilityloads. Since the connection between the grid and the micro grid systemis disconnected, the power generated from the secondary energy sourcecannot flow into the grid.

In an embodiment, at least one operation of blocks 715, 720, 725, 730,735, 740 can be performed by another device such as another micro grid.Further, at least one of determination at blocks 720 and 735 can bereceived from or transmitted to an external device. At block 745, theoperation 700 ends.

FIG. 8 illustrates a frequency change operation 800 of a micro gridsystem for grid-independent operation, according to certain embodiments.The frequency change operation 800 starts at beginning block 810. Themicro grid system can comprise a power controller including a frequencyvariable electronics and an energy quarterback, a secondary energysource, and facility loads. The micro grid system is electricallyconnected to a grid. The frequency variable electronics, the energyquarterback, and a secondary energy source can be similar to thefrequency variable electronics 212, 212′, 312, 300 the energyquarterback 214, 214′, 314, 514 and a secondary energy source 206.

At block 815, the micro grid system obtains characteristics of powersupplied to the load. The characteristics can comprise at least one ofcurrent, voltage, frequency and harmonic contents of the power. In anembodiment, an external sensor can send the characteristics to the microgrid. At block 820, the micro grid system calculates the load based onthe obtained characteristics. In an embodiment, an external device cansend calculated load information to the micro grid. At block 825, themicro grid system modifies or changes frequency of the power supplied tothe load based on the control signal. Since operation of some loads,such as HAVC compressors, refrigerators, fans, motors, and the like,depends on the frequency of the power supplied thereto, the power withmodified or changed frequency can have effects on the energy efficiencyof these devices. In an aspect, reducing the frequency of the powersupplied from the secondary power system increases the energy efficiencyof the attached loads and thus the corresponding effectiveness of thesecondary power system, such that the devices and appliances of the loaddo not consume as much electrical power as consumed when the frequencyof the power supplied to the devices and appliances of the load does notinclude a reduced frequency. Thus, by changing the frequency of thepower, the efficiency of the power consumption of the loads can beadjusted. In an embodiment, least one operation of blocks 815, 820, 825,can be performed another micro grid. At block 830, the operation 800ends.

FIG. 9 illustrates another operation 900 of a micro grid system forgrid-independent operation, according to certain embodiments. Beginningat block 910, the micro grid system is operating. The micro grid systemcan comprise a power controller including a frequency variableelectronics and an energy quarterback, a secondary energy source, andfacility loads. The micro grid system is electrically connected to agrid. The frequency variable electronics, the energy quarterback, and asecondary energy source can be similar to the frequency variableelectronics 212, 212′, 312, 300 the energy quarterback 214, 214′, 314,514 and a secondary energy source 206.

At block 915, the micro grid system can obtain grid energy informationfrom the grid. The micro grid system can obtain grid energy informationby sensing at least one of current, voltage, power on a path between thegrid and the micro grid system. The micro grid system can receive thegrid energy information via network. For example, an external device,user, or another micro grid system can send the grid energy information.

At block 920, the micro grid system determines that grid energy isnormal or abnormal based on the grid energy information. In anembodiment, the micro grid system determines that the grid energy isabnormal when the grid energy is smaller than threshold or the microgrid system receives information indicating a grid outage.

If it is determined that the grid energy is normal at block 920, themicro grid system returns to block 915 and keeps obtaining the gridenergy information at block 915. If it is determined that the gridenergy is abnormal at block 920, the operation 900 moves to block 925.The micro grid system disconnects a connection between the grid and themicro grid system at block 925. The disconnection can advantageouslyprevent electricity generated from the micro grid system from flowinginto the grid. The micro grid system can disconnect connection betweenthe grid and the micro grid system by sending a control signal to aswitch on a path between the grid and the micro grid system.

At block 930, the micro grid system senses a signal from a safetyinterlock. In an embodiment, the safety interlock can send a signal tothe micro grid system to notice whether the micro grid system is tied tothe grid or not. If it is determined that the micro grid system is tiedto the grid at block 935, the operation 900 can move to block 915 andcontinue to obtain the grid energy information. If it is determined thatthe micro grid system is not tied to the grid at block 935, theoperation 900 can move to block 940. At block 940, the micro grid systemchanges frequency of the power supplied to the load based on the controlsignal. Since operation of some loads, such as HVAC compressors,refrigerators, fans, motors, and the like, depends on the frequency ofthe power supplied thereto, the power with changed frequency can haveeffects on the energy use efficiency. Thus, by changing the frequency ofthe power, the efficiency of the power consumption of the loads can beadjusted. In an embodiment, the micro grid adjusts the frequency tomatch connected loads by shifting the supplied frequency of power fromthe approximately 50 Hz or approximately 60 Hz grid frequency of powerto a range from approximately 1 Hz to approximately 100 Hz depending onfactors including: 1) solar energy output and 2) demand from connectedenergy loads and 3) the available stored energy that are factored intodetermining inverter frequency of operation to match solar supply andstorage with connected load demands.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating another renewable energy system,according to certain embodiments. The renewable energy systemillustrated in FIG. 10 can comprise multi tenants 1036, 1038, 1040,1042, various power sources such as a grid 1002, utility 1004, a solarpanel 1006, a wind turbine 1008, and storage 1010, and a secondaryenergy source such as a local solar panel 1020, a local battery 1022,and a local co-generator 1024, an energy quarterback 1001, anddistribution panel 1018.

The distribution panel 1018 can receive powers from the various powersources and the secondary energy source, and provide power each of themulti tenants 1036, 1038, 1040, 10422. The multi tenants 1036, 1038,1040, 1042 has individual sub-meter 1026, 1028, 1030, 1032 for measuringtheir power consumption. In an embodiment, the multi tenants cancomprise individual homes, businesses, multi-tenant commercialfacilities, strip malls, malls, commercial office buildings, andmixed-use facilities.

The energy quarterback 1001 can receive information from the variouspower sources and the secondary energy source. The information from thevarious power sources and the secondary energy source can comprise, butnot limited to, cost, amount of power, power generation profile, etc.The energy quarterback 1001 can comprise a CPU, BIOS, secure ROM memory,RAM, and SSD that can be connected or disconnected from internal bussesand secure communication modules plus local and switched data ports toenhance cybersecurity. The energy quarterback 1001 is capable ofautomatically switching into an internet isolating mode using a switch1012. This may be done for security reasons.

To provide grid balancing services, the energy quarterback 1001 can beelectrically connected to a grid. The energy quarterback 1001 canconstantly balance the various and diverse energy needs of multipleinterconnected micro grid energy tenants 1036, 1038, 1040, 1042 with thesecondary energy source such as the local solar panel 1020, the localbattery 1022, and the local co-generator 1024, energy storage. Theenergy quarterback 1001 can access the local photo-voltaic (PV) solaroutput, identify battery capacity for store and forward of energy. Theenergy quarterback 1001 can access local weather, time of day, andoccupancy via network 1013. The energy quarterback 1001 can accessfacility loads of each tenant, such as thermostats, VVR on HVAC andrefrigeration motors, smart lighting, smart plug loads, and waterheaters.

In an embodiment, storage types and chemistries for the local battery1022 can include hydrogen production plus storage plus fuel cells,graphene batteries, various lithium ion battery chemistries includingbut not limited to lithium iron phosphate, and new ceramic batteriesincluding LLZO (lithium, lanthanum, and zirconium oxide) and LGPS(lithium, germanium, phosphorus sulfide), flow batteries or reverse fuelcells with various chemistries including salt or vanadium, zinc airbatteries, and other types of battery chemistries that ideally match orclosely match various tenant load profiles of various multi-tenantcommercial properties.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating an energy quarterback 1114 for arenewable energy system, according to certain embodiments. The energyquarterback 1114 can comprise secure communications 1104, 1108, 1110.The cyber secure communications 1104, 1108, 1110 can be performed usingcyber secure ICs, cyber secure algorithms, and cyber securecommunication ports. In an aspect, the energy quarterback 1114 cancomprise a secure receiver that can be configured as a secure cellphone, secure satellite-based phone, secure land-line phone, or anyother secure and pre-cleared communication device. In all cases, thesecommunication systems will include verified and preloaded securityclearance authentication that will only allow connection, data input, ordata feeds from a highly secure pre-approved wired or wirelesscommunication connection. The energy quarterback 1114 can comprise asecure ROM, configured as EEPROM or other available secure memoryoptions, that is used to verify and permit connections andcommunications with pre cleared secure data inputs that can be used toaccess the energy quarterback 1114 and its internal CPU, BIOS, systems,ROM, RAM, data loggers, and algorithms.

The energy quarterback 1114 can use at least one of Bluetooth, cellularconnections, WiFi, LTE, 2G, 3G, 4G, or 5G or any wired or wirelessprotocol to remotely receive data, information, inputs, and signals fromor transmit data, information, inputs, and signals to external device,module, switch, and electronics.

To secure the contents of the energy quarterback 1114, the energyquarterback 1114 can rely on the device or CPU operating system.Depending on the BIOS operating system, there are differentauthentication measures, drive encryption, RAM encryption, and securelogin types that can supplement basic CPU and BIOS. However, relying onan operating system to protect sensitive data and operating modealgorithms may be insufficient to keep data files private. A breach ofthe operating system (macOS or Windows for example) may compromise filesand algorithms. An encrypted hard drive can prevent files and algorithmsfrom being compromised.

Cybersecurity approaches today rely on software patches onvulnerabilities that have already been identified. This is not an idealsolution. Hardware cybersecurity plus internet isolation modes containedwithin the energy quarterback 1114 are solutions described herein toensure optimum cybersecurity.

The energy quarterback 1114 can automatically switch into an Internetisolating mode for additional security using one or more of switches1116, 1110. In the Internet isolating mode, the energy quarterback 1114does not communicate with the Internet or other cloud system. The energyquarterback 1114 can rely on limited use OS, no emails, no web sites,and convert algorithms into EEPROM ROM that cannot be hacked or remotelyaccessed. The energy quarterback 1114 has no hardware portvulnerabilities and disarm a large proportion of today's softwarecybersecurity attacks. Also, according to DARPA, Energy Quarterback willeliminate seven classes of hardware weaknesses: permissions andprivileges, buffer errors, resource management, information leakage,numeric errors, crypto errors, and code injection.

Other Embodiments

Some embodiments can comprise use of a meter adapter containingelectronic sensors, power supplies, logic, 2PST or 3PST power on/offswitches, motor and solenoid H-control circuits, public safetyinterlock, backup battery, and serial communications to automatically orremotely control on-demand the safe transformation of a grid tied solarand battery system into a grid independent or islanding micro grid,

Some embodiments can comprise use of a logic system consisting of CPU,FPGA, discrete logic, Memory, Firmware, GPIOs, ADC, DAC, PWMcontrollers, cybersecurity chips, and serial communications in an AIEnergy Quarterback system to assess, calculate needed energy andstorage, and to manage the flow of grid tied and grid independent solarand battery power to serve the local facility needs while alsoparticipating in profitable grid balancing needs.

Some embodiments can comprise use of a whole facility DC to AC inverterthat is under the control of an artificial intelligence (AI) Feedbackand Feedforward Energy Quarterback system that dynamically varies thefrequency of power delivered simultaneously to all facility loadsdistinct from grid power frequencies to achieve optimum facility energyefficiency and effectiveness from every solar and battery stored watt.

Some embodiments can comprise managed use of a local facility's grid ACthat is converted to DC power immediately after the utility meter andthen combined with DC power from solar plus DC power to and from storagebatteries plus DC power to and from EV Chargers. These DC power sourcesand storage are all combined onto a DC power bus bar to mix DC powerfrom the grid, DC solar, DC storage batteries, and DC EV batteries.

In some embodiments, combining all power sources and stored energy on aDC bus bar eliminates the need for multiple costly DC to AC inverters,enabling a single DC to AC power inverter to be used with dynamicvariable frequency power electronics functionality to serve the facilityand its loads with AC power that is distinct and different from the gridAC power without unnecessary use of multiple grid disconnect/connectswitches, automated or manual transfer panels, and multiple variablefrequency motor drives. Advantageously this eliminates costs and controlfirmware sophistication that would otherwise be required to install,separately program and power a facility to prevent back feeding anactive or disabled grid with solar power, battery power, or EV batterydischarged power that operates differently from the local grid ACfrequency.

In some embodiments, addition of a utility grid meter plug-in adapter,referred to herein as a Micro grid in a Meter, that is electricallyconfigured to contain electronic switches, sensors, logic, CPU, memory,backup battery, public safety interlock, and communication circuits.When such devices and firmware/software are installed in the adapter, anew mode of operation for grid tied solar and batteries can be safelyand automatically or remotely commanded to engage and operate. This newmode of operation can be referred to as Public Safety Failsafe GridIndependent and Islanding Micro grid Operation of a Grid Tied solarand/or battery system.

In some embodiments, the adapter is physically connected to and locatedphysically and electrically between the facility grid connected utilitymeter, a grid tied solar system with solar DC to AC inverters, batteryDC to AC inverters, and a local electrical breaker panel that connectsthe local facility electrical energy loads to the utility meter throughthe new Adapter.

In some embodiments, when the grid is shut down or disabled, EnergyQuarterback circuits contained within the Meter Adapter automaticallydetect and switch a utility main power switch (2PST for single-phase or3PST for 3-Phase) into a new grid independent or islanding micro gridmode of operation.

In some embodiments, a mechanically linked public safety interlockcontained within the adapter and mechanically linked to the 2PST or 3PSTGrid ON/OFF switch confirms that the grid and local facility are safelydisconnected from one another.

In some embodiments, Energy Quarterback uses the safety interlock switchlogic to ascertain and communicate to the solar and battery inverter tobegin converting available DC solar and battery energy into AC powerthat powers facility electric energy loads.

In some embodiments, when safely disconnected from the grid andconfirmed by public safety interlock switch, activation of dynamicvariable frequency power electronics converts available DC from solarand/or batteries to AC power that is dynamically adjusted to deliver ACpower frequencies from approximately 1 Hz to approximately 100 Hz toanticipate, optimize, and balance facility electric energy loads tomatch available or anticipated battery or solar power. Use of AIfeedback and feedforward loops plus successive approximation logic torecall prior similar operating conditions.

In some embodiments, input of remote distal on-demand commands includingADR 2.0B and other command and control communication protocols receivedthrough Energy Quarterback to set operations of facility circuits,switches, AC to DC inverters, EV chargers, and a dynamic frequency powermodule to enable local solar and storage assets to meet requirements forthe grid and local facility electric energy load needs.

In some embodiments, charge EVs from sustainable local solar andbatteries. When appropriate, discharge excess EV battery storage to meetlocal facility or grid needs on demand, as commanded by EnergyQuarterback communication, command, and control logic.

Some embodiments can comprise use of an AI feedback and feedforward loopconnected to an MCU or FPGA called the Energy Quarterback that sensesand directs the flow of AC and DC energy through DC to AC inverters, DCswitches, AC switches, PWM power electronics and to electrically isolateor connect the facility and its electrical energy loads to gridcircuits, retain connection to solar energy and stored battery energy.

In some embodiments, to dynamically shift the frequency of AC power thatis delivered by dynamic frequency power electronics or inverters to thefacility electrical energy loads in response to AI feedback andfeedforward factors to match available solar power and battery storagecapacity and anticipated status.

In some embodiments, to power a facility and its connected loads usingdynamic frequency agile power electronics in a manner that operates ator deviates from local grid frequencies of operation (from approximately1 Hz to approximately 100 Hz) for optimum energy use efficiency, dynamiclocal facility load management, grid balancing services, plus reductionof facility greenhouse gas (GHG) footprint from acquired fossil fuelpower.

In a local grid connected facility with or without solar and storage,use of new AI controlled power electronics that automatically or oncommand; 1) electrically connect or isolate a facility and its specificloads, generation, and storage from the grid 2) dynamically shifting thefrequency of AC power delivered to a facility or its loads from grid,solar, or batteries through a single DC bus-connected dynamic frequencyagile variable frequency electronics in response to a multiplicity of AI(feedback and feedforward) factors that automatically optimize facilityenergy use efficiency, facility load management, effectiveness of solarand battery electrons, grid balancing, lowest GHG footprint, gridindependence, EV Charging, and other electric energy related functions.

Eliminates need for facility AC switching to achieve lowest GHGfootprint and options to connect, island, or isolate a facility, itssolar, batteries, and its loads from the grid. Further eliminates amultiplicity of DC to AC inverters that connect but do not manage,allocate, or alter AC frequency of power distribution throughout afacility for greatest electrical energy effectiveness and efficiency inpowering its AC loads.

Use of innovative variable frequency electronics functions combined withhigh efficiency AC to DC conversions, combined with a centralizedfacility or subgroup DC power bus with automated, local, or remotelyactivated DC power steering and switching of devices and systems thatcan isolate a facility or its specific DC generating and AC loadcircuits and systems (grid power, EV, solar, battery storage, HVAC,refrigeration, appliances, computers, servers, and consumer electronics)to create a device or system specific grid islanding properties withoutthe need for grid islanding or transfer switches.

Thereby creating a new class of grid isolating variable frequencyelectronics for greater energy efficiency, reduced GHG footprint andspecific direction and allocation of power within a facility to specificloads from any combination of the grid or solar or storage batterieswith or without dynamic frequency shifting power electronics. Use of afacility DC mixing and electron steering/switching bus.

The net overall efficiency gains of variable frequency AC power faroutweigh AC to DC grid power conversion losses and DC to AC inverterlosses.

Grid AC electrical energy, converted to DC power locally on site topower facility electrical loads through a dynamic agile frequency powerelectronics module using PWM or other high efficiency methods. Steeringdiodes, PWM, and SCR switching are internal to the device throughconnection to an internal DC bus bar. Control signals to manage energyflows in a local facility will come from the AI Energy Quarterbackmodule

DC solar panels connect directly to the internal DC bus bar without needfor DC to AC inverter to supplement or replace grid energy that maypower a connected facility's electric loads at AC Frequencies thatdynamically range between approximately 1 Hz to approximately 100 Hz.

Grid energy, converted to DC Power or Solar DC power will charge DCbatteries connected to an internal DC bus bar through PWM charging andenergy management circuits.

When the grid is shut down or incapacitated, the connected DC solar orbatteries will automatically power the connected facility electricalenergy loads through a DC to AC dynamically variable frequency powerelectronics module.

When the grid requires solar overgeneration mitigation, EnergyQuarterback command and control logic will direct such excess electronsto be stored in on-site batteries.

When grid requires renewable energy electrons from approximately 3:30pm-7:30 pm locally, Energy Quarterback command and control logic willdirect the flow of stored electrons through a DC to AC PWM conversionoperating at grid frequency and voltage (approximately 60 Hz for N.America or approximately 50 Hz for Europe) that is switched onto thegrid by MIM Adapter. Action enables participation in transactive energyto sell locally stored solar electrons to the grid at premium wholesalepricing.

In some embodiments, the adapter can comprise at least one of thefollowings: a digital or analog grid voltage and status signal; digitallogic circuits (FPGA, microcontroller, SOC with GPIOs andcommunications); an electrically operated and mechanically latching gridpower on/off switch; a backup battery to power contained digital logicand to power the mains power; a switch when the grid is off; amechanically linked interlock switch, linked to the grid mains latchingpower on/off switch and configured as a public safety interlock toconfirm the grid mains latching power on/off position is open to preventaccidental back feeding of a disabled grid circuit from a local facilityenergized grid-tied solar system; an H-configured motor control circuitfor activating the adapter contained motor driven or latching grid poweron/off switch; DC to DC boost converter to raise backup battery voltageand amperage sufficiently to actuate the grid power on/off switch; and acommunications system (wired or wireless) that serially communicateswith a local Solar system DC to AC inverter.

In some embodiments, the connect/disconnect switch can comprisemechanically linked safety interlocks, configured adapter plugs intometer socket as physical middleware module, utility meter plugs intoadapter module. The connect/disconnect switch, automatically configuresany grid tied solar system to become an automatic or remotely actuatedgrid independent solar micro grid in islanding mode. The powercontroller supersedes the need for grid tied solar inverters ormicroinverters to automatically shutdown to prevent “back feeding” solaronto a de-energized grid and enables wildfire mitigation while localfacility is independently powered by solar panel. The power controllercan operate local solar independently of a grid to prevent solarovergeneration on the grid. The power controller enables local facilitysolar or storage batteries to deliver dynamically variable frequencypower operate and generate frequencies between approximately 1 Hz andapproximately 100 Hz and other than the local grid frequency to powerconnected loads and deliver optimum dynamic energy efficiency from loadsand optimum energy effectiveness from varying and fixed renewable energyresources and stored energy. The power controller enables local facilityto separate all loads from the grid and power them independently duringdemand response periods.

In some embodiments, the micro grid system can prevent local power fromaccidently being exported or “back feeding” solar or stored energy tothe grid from a grid tied solar or energy storage system. This, combinedwith CPU, memory, sensing and actuating circuits and communicationdevices, can functionally transform a grid tied solar system into a gridindependent islanding micro grid by automated or remote command.

In some embodiments, the micro grid system can confirm position of thegrid connect/disconnect switch, send a logic signal to EnergyQuarterback, communicate that it is safe to operate a solar or batteryDC to AC inverter, comprise of high-power DC steering diodes in a gridAC to DC power supply, communicate with an Energy Quarterbackcommunication, command, and control logic module and DC to AC inverterthat it is safe to operate and dynamically generate AC Power at non gridAC frequencies of between approximately 1 Hz and approximately 100 Hz tomore efficiently deliver power to connected loads but not back feedoff-grid out of sync energy to a 50 Hz or 60 Hz connected grid, includeany electrical load not limited to fans, motors, lights, HVAC,computers, refrigerators, electric stoves, electric hot water heaters,electric heat pumps, computer servers, communication systems, medicaldevices, electric manufacturing devices and systems, EV Chargers, andelectrical devices and appliances of all types and varieties commonly oruncommonly associated within or outside of an electrically energizedfacility.

Above devices contained within the new adapter are configured toautomatically sense and disconnect and then activate a grid tied locallyenergized solar system to feed local facility loads without back feedingsolar electrons onto a disabled grid. These sensors, switches, digitallogic, H motor control, DC to DC boost circuits, and wired or wirelessserial communications are uniquely designed, configured, and placedwithin the physical confines of a new utility meter adapter for thepurpose of safely establishing a grid independent local solar micro gridwithout requiring a separate manual or automatic electrical transferpanel during such times as the connected grid is disabled and notconveying power to the local facility and its myriad AC loads.

During a grid outage, the addition of a new grid tied, grid disconnectrelay switch module with public safety failsafe interlocks preventspower from being accidently exported or “back feeding” the local gridfrom a grid tied solar or battery system. This innovation, combined with6 additional circuits and devices, functionally transform a grid tiedsolar or battery system into a grid independent islanding micro grid onincidence of automated or remote command.

A grid monitoring sensor located internally or externally to the adapterreports to the adapter logic circuitry when grid energy has ceasedpowering the local grid tied facility. A backup battery within theadapter then begins powering the adapter digital logic circuits,sensors, switches, interlocks, and communication circuits to affect anadapter main power switch to automatically disconnect from the grid in amanner that ensures public safety requirements that prevent and confirmthat a local grid tied solar system and its associated grid tied DC toAC power inverter will power the local facility loads but not back feedits electrons onto a disabled grid.

After a measured time period of grid power being disabled, the gridstatus logic sends a command signal through the adapter H motordirection control logic to activate the adapters DC to DC boost circuit(3.7 vdc battery to 12 vdc) to power and actuate the adapter grid mainpower switch solenoid sufficiently to switch and disconnect or reconnectthe grid connection to the local facility, its loads, and its grid tiedsolar system with DC to AC inverter away from the local facility gridconnection.

At the time and incidence of the adapter-located grid mains power switchopening its contacts and separating local facility loads and local solarsystem and DC to AC inverter away from the local facility gridconnection, a mechanically linked switch configured as a public safetyinterlock sensor confirms that the grid mains on/off switch has openedits contacts to the grid. Upon incidence of the public safety interlockswitch confirming a grid disconnect from the facility, the adapter'slogic circuits communicate with and signal a local facility solar DC toAC inverter to begin converting solar electrons into AC power that isuseful for powering the connected facility loads without back feedingthe disabled grid.

Use of a new utility meter adapter and its contained sensors, switches,logic, public safety interlock, separate and independent operation ofgrid tied solar system and its inverter when the grid is producing power

A communication and logic system override that causes the above meteradapter contained electronics to activate the local grid tied solar forindependent grid islanded operations irrespective of the grid power orcondition. for many reasons, this mode of operations is desirable. thesereasons include but are not limited to grid balancing, demandmanagement, mitigating solar overgeneration on the grid and otherelectrical system, grid management, economic, and GHG mitigationsstrategies

Local wired or wireless serial communication networking with a nearbySOC device, called AI Energy Quarterback, that consists of wirelessradio(s), CPU, memory, voltage regulators, and a serial UART thatreceives status signals from the adapter based electronics and in turncontrols operations of a connected solar and/or battery based DC to ACinverter that is enhanced to include novel circuitry that dynamicallycontrols the inverters AC frequency of operation, including grid tiedsolar system with energy storage. While dynamic variable frequencyoperation has been proven to improve the efficiency of an AC electricmotor by as much as 82%, it has never been applied to a solar DC to ACinverter where its frequency of operation is set at factory or uponinstallation solely to match and always synchronize with the localconnected power grid frequency of operation at 50 Hz or 60 Hz dependingon the physical location of the Grid. Electrical and thermal feedback inthe EQB is used to ensure that inverter frequency of operation remainswithin safe operating limits for each connected energy load and device.

While utility meter adapters are not new, they are not used withelectronics, logic, and switches to automatically or on-demand transforma grid tied solar system into an islanding micro grid or gridindependent solar system that further employs dynamic and variablefrequency of power operations from an inverter to optimize theeffectiveness of every solar, stored, watt, kilowatt, or megawatt.

It is the AC to DC conversion of the grid power for the entire facilitywith the subsequent employment of variable frequency of power from acontained DC to PWM AC inverter with open inputs for DC solar andbattery that enable a facility's connected AC motors (HVAC, heat pumps,refrigerator, washer, dryer, pool pump, fans, etc. to operate withoptimal efficiency. A CEC study on heat pumps determined that thesedevices delivered 42% to 82% energy efficiency by employing lowerfrequencies of supplied power. Our innovation is employing this to anentire facility with feedback and external cloud inputs to drive optimalefficiency for an entire facility while economizing on the number ofinverters used for facility optimization, solar DC to AC inverters, andbattery DC to AC inverters.

Energy Quarterback may signal inverter to use a very low frequencystartup mode such as 1 Hz, 2 Hz, 3 Hz or some other frequency thatallows the associated inverter to also “soft start” connected electricalappliances and devices. In other circumstances, buck/boost circuits areused to instantly and briefly supply increased inrush current to startmotors.

Use of a AI Energy Quarterback Networked device to communicate withsensing, control, switching, public safety interlock, and other circuitscontained within a new utility meter adapter to control a solar or solarplus energy storage battery or a separate energy storage batteryinverter in a grid tied solar system whereby such inverter acceptscommands on a dynamic basis to operate as an islanding micro gridinverter with dynamically varying frequency of operation when a publicsafety or emergency grid outage occurs. Also encompasses operation ofthe inverter in a dynamically variable frequency of operation manner atany time when the adapter electronic circuits or other grid separatingcircuits and switches are used to operate a local grid tied solar andsolar with battery inverter independently from the local power grid.

The following describes a method of adjusting and controlling the ACfrequency of operation of a solar inverter of an entire facility tooptimally and efficiently match a mix of electrical energy load needsand grid needs that are connected to such frequency dependent powerelectronics in a grid connected or solar and battery connected inverterthat are connected to an electrical load distribution panel.

The insertion of high power load dependent power electronics that hasboth frequency agility and voltage agility operations, through use ofhigh power PWM circuits comprising of IGBTs or MOSFETs, are managed byan Energy Quarterback device consisting of energy load sensors, A to Dconverters, CPU, memory, and firmware that constantly monitors thecollective and/or individual loads attached to a facility electricalbreaker panel plus cloud data base information about the grid andutility needs and financial programs available for modifying a facilityloads.

Adapter based grid connect/disconnect switch, with mechanically linkedpublic safety interlock sensor, is in series with and “behind” theutility meter through the adapter as a 2PST power switch for singlephase grid tied solar systems. Switch is configured as 3PST withmechanically linked public safety interlock sensor. Where a mechanicalswitch is not useful, size constrained, or desired, high poweredMOSFETS, IGBTs, SCRs, or steering diodes can be used in the alternativewith current and or voltage sensing circuits arranged to confirm eitherGrid connected or independent/disconnected status

Energy Quarterback

To provide grid balancing services, the micro grid and its EnergyQuarterback must be electrically connected to a grid in a grid connectedmode to enable electrical and control level interconnection to distalsolar and distal wind generating power plants and to their availablerenewable electrons. This innovative design enables the use of a localmicro grid Energy Quarterback to constantly balance the various anddiverse energy needs of multiple interconnected micro grid energytenants with local micro grid energy sources, energy storage, and distalenergy resources in an innovative innovation mode called dynamic energyefficiency. On an instant basis, in either form of grid isolatedcondition, the Energy Quarterback assesses the local PV solar output,identifies battery capacity for store and forward of energy, assesseslocal weather, time of day, and occupancy, and commands connected smartthermostats, VVR on HVAC and refrigeration motors, smart lighting, smartplug loads, water heaters, and smart inverter controls on PV andbatteries, plus use of Cogen power plant power and heat.

When operating in the grid connected mode of operation, the EnergyQuarterback also assesses distal (remote) energy supplies and energystorage to automatically acquire such grid energy excesses forallocation into the local facility.

During periods when the grid is “down” for any of its myriad reasons, amicro grid must switch operations to operate independently from the gridand in this grid isolating mode, its primary function shifts toindependently balance energy supplies into localized and tenant energyloads or energy storage on the micro grid. Thus, both methods of gridconnected and grid isolated operation modes are considered controlled bythe Energy Quarterback described herein.

Algorithms operating on Energy Quarterback provide on-site energy loadmanagement through dynamic energy efficiency including dynamic frequencyof power delivery from inverters during grid connected and gridindependent operations for grid balancing and providing on-site tenantswith renewable energy and new renewable energy grid balancing methods,techniques, including the dynamic delivery of varying frequency powerfrom an inverter.

Cybersecurity

Use of secure local communication connections to securely assess,manage, control, and report on, acquisition of distal renewable energy,local renewable energy production, and local or distal storage from amix of on-site renewable power plants, energy storage, plus integrationof distal grid connected renewable distributed energy resources tosupply divergent tenant energy needs plus provide renewable energy gridbalancing services.

Hardware Cybersecurity plus use of Internet Isolation modes as definedwithin the Energy Quarterback:

-   -   Multi-Tenant Micro grid Energy Storage:    -   Mixing storage types to meet multi-tenant electrical load needs.    -   Mixing different Energy and battery storage technologies for        different purposes in a multi-tenant micro grid. Energy storage        types and chemistries will include hydrogen production plus        storage plus fuel cells, Graphene batteries, various lithium Ion        battery chemistries. Flow batteries with various chemistries        including salt or vanadium, Zinc Air batteries, and other types        of battery chemistries to more closely match multiple tenant        load profiles in multi-tenant mixed use commercial properties.

Dynamic Energy Efficiency, through a Dynamic Frequency inverter:

-   -   Use of Variable Frequency Current Limiting mode of operation of        a whole facility electrical panel-connected inverter to vary the        consumption, speed, and energy efficiency of connected Motors,        fans, compressors, washing machines, dryers, water pumps, pool        pumps, HVAC systems, Heat pumps, and other motorized devices and        appliances.

Accepting Utility or 3rd party remote signaling of Grid for DemandResponse, Demand Management, or Solar Overgeneration Mitigation:

-   -   The Electrical Power Generation Disconnect Switch can be        activated by the Energy Quarterback for:        -   Grid power outage, Local Operation, or Remote signaling to            remove the Grid tied solar, batteries, Generators, and            Facility loads from the grid to power the facility but not            contribute to solar overgeneration on the Grid. An NEC and            California SB338 compliant solution.        -   Includes a physically attached interlocking sensor that is            only activated when Grid Disconnect Switch is in the Grid            Independent Micro grid Islanding Operating Mode.        -   Active Frequency Shift to limit PV inverter current by            lowering the AC line frequency that is fed to and            synchronized with Inverters or connected loads thereby            causing higher efficiency or limited Ampacity power output            in Grid Independent Micro grid Islanding mode of operation.        -   Solar Inverter to supply facility loads with dynamic            frequency of operations between 1 Hz to 100 Hz to ensure            Dynamic Energy Efficiency of all connected motors, HVAC,            fans, Heat pumps, washers, dryers, etc., and energy            effectiveness of all supplied secondary power or storage            resources.        -   Use of Voltage Buck or Boost circuits on individual loads as            needed to provide inrush currents to start connected motors.

The innovations, devices, and circuit arrangements that enable VariableFrequency inverter dynamic energy efficiency operations are described inthis filing through the combination of:

-   -   Interlocking automated failsafe Grid switching relay that        separates the facility and its Grid tied solar from the Grid.    -   Energy Quarterback energy management, communication, command,        and control logic.    -   Firmware changes to Grid tied inverters to enable Dynamic Agile        Frequency of AC power output from DC Solar or battery power.    -   Mechanically linked Public Safety switch sends a signal to        Energy Quarterback microprocessor indicating that the Grid is        currently disconnected from the facility and solar system,        thereby permitting the solar system inverter to turn on and        begin converting solar DC electrons into AC electrons at Dynamic        Energy Efficiency selected frequency of operation (1 Hz-100 Hz)        for use of locally generated solar and stored energy by the        facility loads.    -   A switched electric signal generator for these purposes consists        of analog or digital AC signal generating circuits located        within the Energy Quarterback or within firmware located within        a Grid Tied or an Off Grid inverter. This signal generator        device is current limited to supply low power enabling signals        at TTL logic levels, or other predetermined format and protocol        levels, including a 240 VAC center tapped or 120 VAC at 1 Hz-60        Hz transformer operating at low power levels as non-limiting        examples. The purpose of this switched electric signal generator        is to function as at 1 Hz to 100 Hz or other preselected        frequency and voltage to signal a Grid Tied inverter to begin        converting solar DC output to AC power to power the        facility-connected loads, devices, and appliances. It can also        be configured to signal an inverter that has Grid Independent        Islanding Micro grid operating firmware. Constant voltage and        current limiting devices are used in Signal Generator to limit        the current or power delivered by this signal generator to the        inverter but may or may not limit the voltage or frequency        supplied to the connected energy loads, devices, and appliances.    -   The switched electric signal generator is activated and begins        supplying an enabling signal of approximately 1 Hz to        approximately 100 Hz causing a grid tied inverter, string        inverter optimizer, or microinverter to be switched on to        provide Renewable Distributed Energy power exclusively to        facility loads and any connected energy storage device or        batteries through the electrical distribution panel but not to        the grid.

On Demand Islanding

Remote activation of an internal 2PST or 3PST Relay or Solenoid deviceconfigured as a Grid Connect/Disconnect switch and combined withadditional components to result in a new utility commanded and switchedmode of operation of a grid tied solar inverter for purposes ofconverting a grid tied solar and battery inverter and related systemsand devices into a grid independent micro grid islanding solar system.

Use of high powered AC or DC steering Diodes, SCRs, Thyristors, MOSFETs,IGBTs, or other AC or DC gating devices and associated public safetyinterlocking and logic plus firmware in a meter adapter to preventback-feeding power from locally generated solar and stored energy andenergy from a grid powered DC to AC dynamic frequency inverter onto alocal grid.

Terminology

AC power supplied or outputted from the grid or the power controller canbe replaced with AC voltage, AC current, AC energy. DC power suppliedfrom the grid or the power controller can be replaced with DC voltage,DC current, DC energy.

The embodiments disclosed herein are presented by way of examples onlyand not to limit the scope of the invention. One of ordinary skill inthe art will appreciate from the disclosure herein that many variationsand modifications can be realized without departing from the scope ofthe present disclosure.

The term “and/or” herein has its broadest least limiting meaning whichis the disclosure includes A alone, B alone, both A and B together, or Aor B alternatively, but does not require both A and B or require one ofA or one of B. As used herein, the phrase “at least one of” A, B, “and”C should be construed to mean a logical A or B or C, using anon-exclusive logical or.

The description herein is merely illustrative in nature and is in no wayintended to limit the disclosure, its application, or uses. For purposesof clarity, the same reference numbers will be used in the drawings toidentify similar elements. It should be understood that steps within amethod may be executed in different order without altering theprinciples of the present disclosure.

As used herein, the term module may refer to, be part of, or include anApplication Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC); an electronic circuit; acombinational logic circuit; a field programmable gate array (FPGA); aprocessor (shared, dedicated, or group) that executes code; othersuitable components that provide the described functionality; or acombination of some or all of the above, such as in a system-on-chip(SOC). The term module may include memory (shared, dedicated, or group)that stores code executed by the processor.

The term code, as used above, may include software, firmware, and/ormicrocode, and may refer to programs, routines, functions, classes,and/or objects. The term shared, as used above, means that some or allcode from multiple modules may be executed using a single (shared)processor. In addition, some or all code from multiple modules may bestored by a single (shared) memory. The term group, as used above, meansthat some or all code from a single module may be executed using a groupof processors. In addition, some or all code from a single module may bestored using a group of memories.

The apparatuses and methods described herein may be implemented by oneor more computer programs executed by one or more processors. Thecomputer programs include processor-executable instructions that arestored on a non-transitory tangible computer readable medium. Thecomputer programs may also include stored data. Non-limiting examples ofthe non-transitory tangible computer readable medium are nonvolatilememory, magnetic storage, and optical storage. Although the foregoinginvention has been described in terms of certain preferred embodiments,other embodiments will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the artfrom the disclosure herein. Additionally, other combinations, omissions,substitutions and modifications will be apparent to the skilled artisanin view of the disclosure herein. Accordingly, the present invention isnot intended to be limited by the reaction of the preferred embodiments,but is to be defined by reference to claims.

Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, “can,” “might,”“may,” “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, orotherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intendedto convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments donot include, certain features, elements and/or states. Thus, suchconditional language is not generally intended to imply that features,elements and/or states are in any way required for one or moreembodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logicfor deciding, with or without author input or prompting, whether thesefeatures, elements and/or states are included or are to be performed inany particular embodiment. The terms “comprising,” “including,”“having,” and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in anopen-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features,acts, operations, and so forth. Also, the term “or” is used in itsinclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, forexample, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some,or all of the elements in the list. Further, the term “each,” as usedherein, in addition to having its ordinary meaning, can mean any subsetof a set of elements to which the term “each” is applied.

While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointedout novel features as applied to various embodiments, it will beunderstood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in theform and details of the devices or algorithms illustrated can be madewithout departing from the spirit of the disclosure. As will berecognized, certain embodiments of the inventions described herein canbe embodied within a form that does not provide all of the features andbenefits set forth herein, as some features can be used or practicedseparately from others.

What is claimed is:
 1. A micro grid comprising: a grid isolating switch configured to receive a first AC signal from an electrical grid over a first signal path and supply a second AC signal to the electrical grid over a second signal path, the first signal path separate from the second signal path, wherein the first signal path includes at least two conductors, a first conductor of the first signal path distinct from a second conductor of the first signal path, and wherein the second signal path includes at least two other conductors, a first conductor of the second signal path distinct from a second conductor of the second signal path; an AC to DC converter configured to convert the first AC signal to a first DC signal; power electronics circuitry configured to receive the first DC signal, provide a combined DC signal, convert the combined DC signal to a third AC signal being supplied to loads associated with a facility, adjust frequency and/or voltage of the third AC signal based at least in part on sensed power characteristics of the third AC signal being supplied to the loads associated with the facility, and supply the loads associated with the facility with the third AC signal having the adjusted frequency and/or adjusted voltage, wherein the sensed power characteristics include one or more of current, voltage, frequency, and harmonic contents of power of the third AC signal being supplied to the loads associated with the facility; and a DC to AC inverter configured to receive, responsive to the one or more control signals, the combined DC signal from the power electronics circuitry and convert the combined DC signal to the second AC signal.
 2. The microgrid of claim 1 further comprising one or more sensors configured to sense the power characteristics of the third AC signal being supplied to the loads associated with the facility.
 3. The microgrid of claim 2 further comprising a processor and memory having instructions that when executed cause the processor to generate one or more control signals based at least in part on the sensed power characteristics of the third AC signal being supplied to the loads associated with the facility.
 4. The microgrid of claim 2, wherein the one or more sensors are further configured to sense characteristics of the first AC signal from the electrical grid.
 5. The microgrid of claim 4 further comprising a processor and memory having instructions that when executed cause the processor to generate one or more control signals based at least in part on the sensed characteristics of the first AC signal from the electrical grid and the sensed power characteristics of the third AC signal having the adjusted frequency and/or adjusted voltage.
 6. The microgrid of claim 4 further comprising a second switch configured to open and close the second signal path responsive to sensed characteristics of the first AC signal from the electrical grid.
 7. A micro grid comprising: a grid isolating switch configured to receive a first AC signal from an electrical grid over a first signal path and supply a second AC signal to the electrical grid over a second signal path, the first signal path separate from the second signal path, wherein the first signal path includes at least two conductors, a first conductor of the first signal path distinct from a second conductor of the first signal path, and wherein the second signal path includes at least two other conductors, a first conductor of the second signal path distinct from a second conductor of the second signal path; an AC to DC converter configured to convert the first AC signal to a first DC signal; a bus bar configured to receive the first DC signal and provide a combined DC signal; an inverter configured to convert the combined DC signal to a third AC signal being supplied to loads associated with a facility, modify frequency and/or voltage of the third AC signal based at least in part on sensed power characteristics of the third AC signal being supplied to the loads associated with the facility, and supply the loads associated with the facility with the third AC signal having the modified frequency and/or modified voltage, wherein the sensed power characteristics include one or more of current, voltage, frequency, and harmonic contents of power of the third AC signal being supplied to the loads associated with the facility; and a DC to AC inverter configured to receive, responsive to the one or more control signals, the combined DC signal from the bus bar and convert the combined DC signal to the second AC signal.
 8. The microgrid of claim 7 further comprising at least one secondary DC energy source that is in communication with the bus bar.
 9. The microgrid of claim 8, wherein the at least one secondary energy source includes a solar array, a battery or an electric vehicle.
 10. The microgrid of claim 8, wherein the bus bar is further configured to receive a third DC signal from the at least one secondary DC energy source and combine the first DC signal and the third DC signal to form the combined DC signal.
 11. The microgrid of claim 7, wherein the grid isolating switch comprises a first connector configured to couple to the electrical grid.
 12. The microgrid of claim 11, wherein the grid isolating switch further comprises a second connector configured to couple to an electric meter that measures energy supplied by the electrical grid to the microgrid.
 13. The microgrid of claim 7 further comprising a wireless communication device configured to communicate with an external device to obtain grid information, wherein a state of the grid isolating switch is based at least in part on the obtained grid information.
 14. A method to control a microgrid, the method comprising: receiving a grid-tied AC signal from an electrical grid over a first path, the first path including at least two conductors, a first conductor of the first signal path distinct from a second conductor of the first signal path; converting, with an AC to DC converter, the grid-tied AC signal to a first DC signal; receiving, at a bus bar, the first DC signal and providing, with the bus bar, a second DC signal; converting, with a first inverter, the second DC signal to a first AC signal for supply to electrical loads of a facility, modifying frequency and/or voltage of the first AC signal based at least in part on sensed power characteristics of the first AC signal for supply to the electrical loads of the facility, wherein the sensed power characteristics include one or more of current, voltage, frequency, and harmonic contents of power of the first AC signal for supply to the electrical loads of the facility; and converting, with a second inverter and responsive to one or more control signals, the second DC signal to a second AC signal for supply to the electrical grid over a second path, the second path distinct from the first path, the second path comprising at least two other conductors, a first conductor of the second path distinct from a second conductor of the second path.
 15. The method of claim 14 further comprising supplying the first AC signal having the modified frequency and/or modified voltage to the electrical loads of the facility.
 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the facility comprises a single or multi-tenant residence.
 17. The method of claim 14 further comprising supplying the second AC signal to the electrical grid over the second path.
 18. The method of claim 14 further comprising synchronizing the second AC signal with frequency of power of the electrical grid.
 19. The method of claim 14 further comprising sensing the power characteristics of the first AC signal having the modified frequency and/or modified voltage, wherein one or more control signals are based at least in part on the sensed power characteristics of the first AC signal having the modified frequency and/or modified voltage.
 20. The method of claim 14 further comprising sensing characteristics of the grid-tied AC signal, wherein the one or more control signals are based at least in part on the sensed characteristics of the grid-tied AC signal. 